07/01/2026
Speke’s hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys spekii) in Kizigo Game Reserve, Tanzania
Tanzania hosts several hinge-back tortoise species from the genus Kinixys, primarily the widespread Bell’s Hinged Tortoise (Kinixys belliana), known for its shell hinge, and possibly Speke’s Hinge-back Tortoise (Kinixys spekii), often found in savanna areas, though exact species distribution is complex due to ongoing taxonomy, with Kinixys erosa (Forest Hingeback) also present in suitable habitats across sub-Saharan Africa
Kinixys Species in Tanzania
Kinixys belliana (Bell’s Hinged Tortoise): Historically considered very common in Tanzania and across much of sub-Saharan Africa, though recent revisions might limit its range to central Africa, with populations in Tanzania potentially being closely related or distinct subspecies
Kinixys spekii (Speke’s Hinge-back Tortoise)
Found in savanna habitats and ranges into southern Africa, it’s a likely candidate for Tanzanian presence
Kinixys erosa (Forest Hingeback Tortoise)
While generally associated with rainforests, its presence in East Africa means it could occur in wetter, forested parts of Tanzania
Identifying Features
Hinge: All Kinixys have a distinctive hinge on their carapace (shell) that allows them to close off the rear part of their shell for protection.
Claws: Bell’s hinge-backs often have five claws on their front feet, unlike some related species
Habitat:
These tortoises prefer tropical and subtropical savannas, grasslands, and woodland areas, with different species favoring slightly different environments, from open plains to forested regions
